US10346836B2 - Payment system and method including enabling electronic receipts - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a system comprising: a server (1) in communication with a plurality of point-of-sale (POS) terminals (2), point-of-sale (POS) terminals (2) arranged to communicate wireless with a consumer device (3); and a logic (4) stored on the costumer device (3) arranged to; identify a point-of-sale (POS), enable check in of a virtual shopping cart (5) enabling shopping at said point-of-sale (POS) and enable check-out for payment at said point-of-sale (POS), logic (6) stored on the POS terminal (2) arranged enable communication with said costumer device (3), wherein said logics (4, 6) are arranged to enable said POS terminal (2) to complete the sale of merchandise (7) contained in said virtual shopping cart (5), and to produce a physical receipt and/or an electronic receipt (8), wherein said server (1) is also in communication with a plurality of point-of-sale (POS) terminals (2) and said virtual shopping cart (5) is handled by said server (1).

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to a method and system comprising a server in communication with a plurality of point-of-sale terminals, wherein said point-of-sale terminals are arranged to communicate wirelessly with a plurality of consumer devices; and a logic stored on the consumer device is arranged to; identify a store, enable check-in in said store thus creating a virtual shopping cart enabling shopping at said store and enable check-out for payment at said POS terminal in said store, and logic stored on the POS terminal arranged to enable communication with said costumer device.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

From WO 2011057412 A1 is known series of processes and methods designed to seamlessly capture detailed transactional data from merchant's point-of-sale environments and generate final presentments of electronic receipts for both consumers and merchants, accessible from their destination accounts, all in real time. Objectives are to: migrate all printed paper receipts to electronic forms; enable consumer facing post-sales management capabilities; increase self-serve; create new shopping and post-shopping experiences and satisfaction rates; significantly reduce administrative and storage requirements and costs, and provide more time for work productivity. Consumers and merchants are able to create various reports and are able to directly submit them from their destination accounts for: expenditure accounting and tax purposes, payment processing, and for other company expenses. However the system is built on the use of a credit card, or similar electronic mean leading to some disadvantages e.g. inability to pay with cash.

From US 2013138518 A1 is known devices, systems, and methods disclosed for facilitating a wireless transaction by coupling or associating an identifier to a location. The identifier is read, retrieved, or received by a consumer's wireless communication device to connect to a POS terminal. Once connected, the wireless communication device sends a location identifier to the POS terminal, so that the POS terminal can associate the wireless communication device with the location. Once an association is established, the POS terminal then presents options. The POS terminal receives selections, and alerts a staff member of selections and the location. In many instances, the POS terminal may also add the selection to a bill or an invoice. However also the system has some disadvantages, e.g. similar to WO 2011057412.

From US 2013166332 A1 is known devices, systems, and methods disclosed for facilitating a wireless transaction providing electronic receipts. However, also this system has some disadvantages, e.g. similar to WO 2011057412.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of the present invention to overcome or at least minimize disadvantages of prior and solutions, which is achieved by means of a system and method as defined is the claims, whereby increased flexibility is achieved for users to interact electronically with different/various store locations/systems, e.g. not requiring the registration of a credit card as a necessity and for resellers by enabling use of existing POS terminal and store systems. Instead the system design is based on the use of a virtual shopping cart, that mainly is controlled/handled by the user and that at the time of check out is still maintained by the user but gets into control of a POS terminal, e.g. handled by a cashier.

A further advantage of the system and method according to the invention is that the existing hardware, i.e. existing infrastructure system of different point-of-sales may be used without any substantial changes, making it very cost efficient from a holistic perspective and indeed flexible. Moreover this means that staff/cashiers at various POS terminals may easily interact in integrating the invention to existing systems and structures. Furthermore the invention may enable easy conversion to self-service checking out and/or less time consuming interaction by means of the system design, e.g. enabling more availability of staff for consumers at various locations in a store.

According to further aspects to the invention said logics are arranged to enable real time view within the display of the costumer device displaying the information processed by said POS terminal, which provides the advantage that the consumer may interact in real time during the check-out session.

According to further aspects of the invention said point-of-sale terminal is arranged to enable payment by means of a payment channel that is independent of said costumer device, which provides the advantage that a consumer may freely choose to pay by any desired means accepted by that point of sale.

According to further aspects of the invention said logic stored on the costumer device is arranged to enable authorization by means of third party identity provider, which provides the advantage that extra security may be provided in connection with authorization also a very efficient manner of extracting desired data.

According to further aspect of the invention, which provides the advantage that a very reliable and easy handled activation of shopping session may be initiated.

According to further aspect to the invention said logic stored on the costumer device is arranged to electronically identify a check-out code and to use said check-out code to connect to a point-of-sale terminal for completion of a sale, which provides the advantage that reliable and easy handled checking out/payment may be achieved.

Further aspects and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing aspects and many of the attendant advantages of this invention will become more readily appreciated as the same become better understood by reference to the following detailed description, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 shows an overview of a preferred embodiment of the system and workflow according to the invention,

FIG. 2 shows a preferred embodiment of the workflow for the authentication,

FIG. 3 shows a preferred embodiment of the workflow of creating an account,

FIG. 4 shows a preferred embodiment of the workflow of self-service shopping,

FIG. 5 shows a preferred embodiment of the workflow of menu based shopping,

FIG. 6 shows a preferred embodiment of the workflow of client registration,

FIG. 7A shows a preferred embodiment of the workflow of online messaging,

FIG. 7B shows a preferred embodiment of the workflow of offline messaging,

FIG. 8 shows a preferred embodiment of the workflow of check-out

FIG. 9 shows a preferred embodiment of the workflow of account association,

FIG. 10A shows a preferred embodiment of the workflow of importing receipt,

FIG. 10B shows a preferred embodiment of the workflow of importing receipt where the receipt is not ready,

FIG. 11 shows a preferred embodiment of the workflow of sharing a receipt,

FIG. 12 shows a preferred embodiment of the workflow transferring a receipt between users,

FIG. 13A shows a preferred embodiment of the workflow of transferring singular items between virtual shopping carts,

FIG. 13B shows a preferred embodiment of the workflow of merging virtual shopping carts,

FIG. 13C shows a preferred embodiment of the workflow of viewing other users virtual shopping charts,

FIG. 14A shows a preferred embodiment of the check-in code uri,

FIG. 14B shows a preferred embodiment of the check-out code uri,

FIG. 14C shows a preferred embodiment of the import receipt uri,

FIG. 14D shows a preferred embodiment of the account association uri

In the following detailed description some expression are used that are explained in more detail below;

User U—e.g. a user of aconsumer device3 having a client C installed and/or optionally an employee at a company.

Consumer device—a mobile device, e.g. a smart phone, where the client C is installed.

Client C—a client app for Android or iPhone or Windows Phone or any other operating systems. Further, it is evident for the skilled person that client C may refer to a variety of software solutions that may communicate withserver1 such asPOS logic6,backend13, etc.

Code reader app—an optional application for reading QR-codes, barcodes, NFC, RFID or similar contactless technology, which may be used for an alternative way to get the client C installed.

Logic—it is evident for the skilled person that the expression logic must be a construed in a broad sense, i.e. hardware and/or software solutions defined by a set of axioms and rules which are executed by a processor.

Server—a web application, e.g. in a cloud service such as Windows Azure, that provides functionality such as API methods or direct message routing for any client C.

Store—a physical or virtuallocation providing merchandise7 for sale such as retail store, restaurant, kiosk, web shop, catalog, market stand, etc. A store normally relates to a business entity including a plurality of POS terminals and sales staff for check-out and completion of transactions, but the expression must in regard to the invention be construed in a wider sense, e.g. including a store with merely one point of sale terminal and indeed that may be unmanned, i.e. without staff, e.g. an automated car wash.

POS terminal—the physical or virtual location where the check-out and completion of transaction is made. A physical POS terminal may or may not be manned by a cashier S. A virtual POS terminal is fully automated and facilitates check-out without the involvement of any cashier S. Scenarios where applicable include parking lots, vending machines, kiosks, etc.

Receipt archive—a storage for archived digital receipts. Preferably all digital receipts are stored here and are accessible for the user through the client.

Backend—a backend system containing information for a POS terminal, e.g. item (merchandise) register, rebates, price information, etc.

Check-out code—a QR-code, barcode, NFC, RFID or similar contactless digital information that may be scanned by the client C to check-out from the store. Preferably it may be located at the POS terminal.

Check-in code—a QR-code, barcode, NFC, RFID or similar contactless digital information that may be scanned by the client to check-in at a store, which preferably may be located at the store entrance.

Cashier S—an employee at the POS that may operate a POS terminal.

Company—a company where the User may be an employee.

ERP system—a company related ERP system (Enterprise Resource Planning) integrated with the system of the invention for receiving digital receipt information.

Additional codes, e.g.;

• • A receipt from a previous purchase—having a QR-code, barcode, NFC, RFID or similar contactless digital information on a paper receipt from a POS terminal of a previous purchase.
  • Advertisements—a QR-code, barcode, NFC, RFID or similar contactless digital information on a poster, flyer, web site banner, advertising screen or other advertising media.

Identity provider—an online service for user identification.

Mail recipient—a person receiving a mail sent from the system.

File hosting service—an online storage for storing digital documents and other files.

Application store—an application or web site enabling installations of applications (apps) on a mobile device, e.g.;

• • Google play
  • Apple AppStore
  • Windows Store

Or other online digital media store.

Payment service—an online payment service for making payments by means of a mobile device.

Virtual shopping cart—it is evident for the skilled person that the expression virtual shopping cart refers to an electronic entity that may contain information about items, services, time limited right of possession of a physical or virtual location (such as a parking lot, hotel room, theatre seat, data storage, etc.) that are offered by a store (17). Furthermore any rebates, warranty information, amount due, etc. Virtual shopping cart is stored digitally inserver1 and is accessible from any authorized client C such asconsumer device3,POS terminal2, etc.

Session—an ongoing activity associated with avirtual shopping cart5 and a user U. May be one of one of the following types: self-service shopping, menu based shopping or digital receipt. At time of check-out the session may be handled by aPOS terminal2 where it is represented as part of a transaction.

Transaction—the retail transaction performed by aPOS terminal2. When the transaction is done the related session is finalized.

Message—A message is a set of data comprised of machine-readable information, such as XML, JSON, byte data, Base64 encoded data, etc. A message may also contain information that identifies the sending and receiving client C.

Direct messaging—A method of sending messages between clients C. A message may be sent from one client C to another by posting the message at the direct message router. Direct message router may deliver the message to the receiving client C directly through an open connection or queued for later delivery if the receiving client C is disconnected. A message may also be sent between two clients C by using direct connection, i.e. by bypassing the message router, if the clients C are capable of connecting directly to each other (i.e. connected to the same network or by using any communication method such as Bluetooth, NFC, WiFi or any other commonly used methods for direct communication).

Direct message node—A part of a cluster (e.g. load balancing cluster) comprising one or more direct message nodes, forming the direct message router functionality inserver1.

Direct message router—A web application inserver1 that provides functionality such as API methods for direct message routing for any client C.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The following detailed description, and the examples contained therein, are provided for the purpose of describing and illustrating certain embodiments of the invention only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way.

FIG. 1 shows an overview of a preferred workflow and the technical deployment of the invention. The system comprises aserver1 whichserver1 is in communication with a plurality ofPOS terminals2. SaidPOS terminals2 are arranged to communicate wireless with aconsumer device3, such as a smart phone. Alogic4 is stored on thecostumer device3 arranged to identify a store, enable check in of avirtual shopping cart5 enabling shopping at said store and to enable check-out for payment at said store. There is also aPOS logic6 stored on thePOS terminal2 arranged to enable communication with theconsumer device3. Thelogic4 in theconsumer device3 and thePOS logic6 are arranged to enable saidPOS terminal2 to complete a sale ofmerchandise7 contained in saidshopping cart5 and to produce anelectronic receipt8, wherein information regarding eachmerchandise7 may easily be retrieved via aunique merchandise code70.

Eachmerchandise7 is preferably identified by means ofunique identifier70. Thatunique identifier70 may typically be in the form of a digital identifier code, which is visually present on eachmerchandise70, e.g. EAN code in the form of scan able bar code. Typically thatunique identifier70 will be stored digitally in thebackend13 system of a store, together with information regarding thatmerchandise7, e.g. producer, price, etc. It is also foreseenunique identifiers70 may be stored in thedata storage14 directly connected to theserver1 of the invention. Irrespective of where theunique identifier70 is stored, it will be provide beneficial possibilities for producers and consumers to get in direct contact with each other via the client C. For instant theunique identifier70 may by means of the client C enable easy access to the webpage of a producer to get real time information regarding a selectedmerchandise7. Moreover the invention may provide the possibility for a producer to get in contact with selected consumers U by means of the system keeping record of purchases ofspecific merchandise7, providing retrievably records in thedata storage14 connecting aunique merchandise code70 with specific users U. As apparent from other parts of the description theunique identifier70 must not be in a form of a standardized code, e.g. EAN, but may also be uniquely created by means of theserver1 of the system.

If a user U has not used the system according to the invention before he/she needs to install an app, i.e. a client C including thelogic4 on his/herconsumer device3. The user need to download and install the app preferably via Google Play (Android based devices) or Apple App Store (IOS based devices) or Windows Store (Windows Phone based devices). Besides installing the app directly from Google Play or Apple App Store or Windows Store (by searching for it) the novel system provides an alternate way to install the application which will be described below.

• • A user U starts a code reader app on theconsumer device3 and scans a specific code: provided (e.g. in the form of physical stickers/paper sheets and/or a screen display) by the system providers, e.g. in the form of a Check-out code12, Check-incode11, or any other additional code.
  • The code reader app identifies the scanned code as an URL and asks the user to open the scanned URL with the web browser on theconsumer device3. The URL points to a web application in an API of the system that redirects the request based on the operating system used in theconsumer device2, e.g. redirects the request to either Google Play or Apple App Store or Windows Store.
  • The user U then follows the instructions to install the user client C (the app with the logic4) on theconsumer device3.

When the client C is installed on theconsumer device3 and is started the first time, the user U will need to confirm his/her identity through anidentity provider10, such as Facebook, Google, Microsoft Account, Twitter, etc. If the user U does not have an account in any of the providedidentity providers10, he/she will be able to create one at this time. The workflow is shown inFIG. 2.

• • a The user U selects one of the providedidentity providers10 to authenticate with. Theidentity provider10 asks the user to accept the client C to access information from his/her/its user account. The identity provider may at this point ask the user U for his/her/its user credentials and in case when the user U does not have an existing account, to create an account at theidentity provider10. Theidentity provider10 may require secure authentication by other means than the user interface in client C. E.g. using a html/web browser form over https or app previously installed incustomer device3 foridentity provider10. After the authentication process between theidentity provider10 and thelogic4 is finished, thelogic4 inconsumer device3 receives an access token from theidentity provider10.
  • b Logic4 inconsumer device3 calls theserver1 with the access token received from theidentity provider10 received in previous step.
  • c Server1 verifies theaccess token10 with theidentity provider10 by calling a web service method. Theidentity provider10 returns either the identity of the user U or one an error (e.g. access token expired, user account does not exists, technical error, etc.). In the case the identity provider returns an error it may be returned to thelogic4 inconsumer device3.
  • d Server1 looks up the identity received in previous step in thedata storage14. If the identity was not found the account may be created (seeFIG. 3). If the identity already exists indata storage14 result code OK and the account id is returned to thelogic4 ofconsumer device3.

If the identity was not found in step d above the following steps may be performed. Also depicted inFIG. 3.

• • a.Logic4 inconsumer device3 authenticates with theidentity provider10 and retrieves the user identity of user U.
  • b.Logic4 inconsumer device3 calls theserver1 with user identity of user U received in step a.
  • c.Server1 creates an account record indata storage14.

Direct Messaging

To enable direct messaging between clients such as mobile devices, POS terminals, etc. a client must be registered.

The workflow is described inFIG. 6:

• • a. Client C connects to an externalweb socket endpoint17 atserver1
  • b. Load balancer (LB)18, distributes the connection to one of the direct message router nodes19 (PMR:1, PMR:2 . . . PMR:N (in this case PMR:1))
  • c. Client C sends a handshake message to direct message router19 (PMR:1) via theweb socket connection17,18,19 established in step b.
  • d. Direct message router19 (PMR:1) registers client C and itself in routing table (RT)142.

If two clients C are registered, e.g. as described above they can send direct messages to each other.

Sending a direct message from client C:1 to client C:2 where both clients are online is described inFIG. 7A:

• • a. Client C:1 callsserver1 with the message.
  • b.Load balancer18 distributes the message to one of the direct message router nodes19 (in this case PMR:1).
  • c. Direct message router19 (PMR:1) queries router table142 for the direct-message node19 for client C:2 (in this case PMR:2).
  • d. Direct message router PMR:1 calls the direct message router PMR:2 with the message.
  • e. Direct message router PMR:2 sends the message to theweb socket20 of client C:2.

The connection between client C:1 and client C:2 may be optimized by direct connection, i.e. by bypassing the message routing functionality of theserver1, if client C:1 and client C:2 are capable of connecting directly to each other (i.e. connected to the same network or by using any communication method such as Bluetooth, NFC, WiFi or any other commonly used methods for direct communication). In this case messages will be sent directly using techniques like http/https, raw TCP, SSL, etc.Server1 may assist in determining which method for direct communication to use.

If the recipient client C is not registered at the time when a message is sent a message may be marked for later delivery. When marked for later delivery, the message may or may not have a time of expiration. The message may then be queued and delivered as soon as the client C is registered in direct messaging.

Sending a direct message from client C:1 to client C:2 where client C:2 is not registered is described inFIG. 7B:

• • a. Client C:1 callsserver1 with the message.
  • b.Load balancer18 distributes the message to one of the direct message router nodes (in this case PMR:1).
  • c.Direct message router19, PMR:1 queries router table142 for the direct-message node for client C:2 (in this case there is no registration for client C:2).
  • d. Direct message router PMR:1 writes the message todata storage14.
  • e. When client C:2 at a later time is registered (in this case in PMR:2),direct message router19queries data storage14 and retrieves offline messages for client C:2.
  • f. Direct message router PMR:2 sends the message to theweb socket20 of client C:2.

With the self-service shopping functionality user U ofconsumer device3 to check in at a store (17) by scanning check-incode11, e.g. placed at a store (17) entrance.Logic4 onconsumer device3 is arranged to electronically identify check-incode11 and to use said check-incode11 to check-in at the selected store (17).

This will start a self-service shopping session where user U, may scan QR-codes, barcodes, NFC, RFID or similar contactless codes attached onmerchandise7 in the store (17).

By scanning check-outcodes12, placed at one of the cash desks in the store (17), user ends the shopping session and starts a check-out session. During the check-out session client C and thelogic6 of the cash register communicate directly with each other, e.g. via a direct messaging. At thistime display300 ofdevice3 may be used as an external display toPOS terminal2 and display information fromPOS terminal2 in real time. Cashier S may modify the list ofmerchandise7 by adding, changing or removing items, whereby all changes may directly be reflected indisplay300. The check-out session ends when user U has paid in full to cashier S and cashier S finalizes the transaction inPOS terminal2. When the check-out session has ended adigital receipt8 is generated and may be displayed indisplay300 of client C.

FIG. 4 shows an example of a workflow of self-service shopping according to the invention.

• • a.Logic4 inconsumer device3 callsserver1 and retrieves a list of nearby stores (17), based on the current location from a GPS function inconsumer device3, from which user U may select a specific store (17).
  • b.Logic4 inconsumer device3 may also select a store (17) by scanning a specific check-incode11 containing an identifier for the selected store (17).
  • c.Logic4 starts a new self-service shopping session by callingserver1 with the identifier for the selected store (17).
  • d.Server1 creates a new session and avirtual shopping cart5 indata storage14.
  • e. User U may scan codes onmerchandise7 by means oflogic4.
  • f. Scanned codes frommerchandise7 are forwarded toserver1
  • g.Server1 callsbackend13 and retrieves information about themerchandise7.
  • h.Server1 updates theshopping cart5 indata storage14 wherebyvirtual shopping cart5 is returned tologic4.
  • i.Logic4 may update display of consumer device accordingly.
  • j. The user U may modify an item in thevirtual shopping cart5 by means oflogic4. Examples of modifications on a line may include removal or changing the quantity of items invirtual shopping cart5.
  • k.Logic4 callsserver1 to apply the modification on the corresponding item invirtual shopping cart5.
  • l.Server1 updatesvirtual shopping cart5 indata storage14.Virtual shopping cart5 is then returned tologic4.
  • m.Logic4 may update display of consumer device accordingly.
  • n. User U may acquire more information about scannedmerchandise7 by means oflogic4.
  • o.Logic4 sends a request toserver1 with thecode70 of scannedmerchandise7.
  • p.Server1 callsbackend13 and retrieves information about themerchandise7.
  • q.Server1 may callexternal sources400 for additional information aboutmerchandise7. Examples of external sources are manufacturers, price comparison web sites, etc. Gathered information is returned tologic4.
  • r. When self-service shopping session ends, user U scans check-out code12, e.g. located adjacent to one of thePOS terminals2 by means oflogic4.
  • s.Logic4 callsserver1 and requests a check-out and retrieves the direct message address ofPOS terminal2.
  • t.Logic4 sends a check-out request toPOS terminal2 using direct connection.
  • u.POS terminal2 callsserver1 and retrievesvirtual shopping cart5.

When checking outlogic4 in theconsumer device3 initiates a check-outdisplay300 that may be directly connected (or through server1) toPOS terminal2. At this moment the main control ofshopping cart5 is moved fromlogic4 ofuser device3 tologic6 ofPOS terminal2.Logic4 onconsumer device3 is arranged to electronically identify check-out code12, which is used to connect toPOS terminal2 for completion of sales. Check-outdisplay300 showsshopping cart5 and its items and preferably also all the changes that cashier S might do at POS terminal2 (e.g. adding additional items, removing an item adding a bonus or changing the quantity of items, etc.). Preferably all actions are momentarily pushed tologic4 inconsumer device3 and presented to user U in real time as they are handled by cashier S.

Direct messages betweenPOS terminal2 by means ofPOS logic6 andconsumer device3 by means oflogic4, may follow the steps as schematically shown inFIG. 7A.

Client C scans check-out code12 located adjacent toPOS terminal2. Client C decodes check-out12 code and extracts the POS terminal identifier (seeFIG. 14B). Client C then callsserver1, providing the POS terminal identifier and requests a check-out session at the identifiedPOS terminal2.Server1 creates a check-out session and returns a session identifier. When the check-out session is created, client C callsserver1 with the newly created session identifier and awaits the response from POS logic, preferably direct online messaging (seeFIG. 7A).

POS logic6 may or may not accept the request depending of the state ofPOS terminal2.POS logic6 may return a message with one of the following status codes:

• • Pending—Cashier S has accepted the check-out session in thePOS terminal2. A copy ofvirtual shopping cart5 is appended.
  • Busy—POS terminal2 is busy with another check-out session or is in a state which makesPOS terminal2 unavailable (e.g. occupied with other tasks)
  • NotAcceptedByClerk—Check-out session is actively denied by cashier S.

If cashier S accepts the check-out session inPOS terminal2,POS logic6 retrievesvirtual shopping cart5 fromserver1. At this stage the control ofvirtual shopping cart5 is shifted from client C toPOS logic6. All changes made tovirtual shopping cart5 are now preferably made byPOS logic6 exclusively, although client C may request additional items to be added tovirtual shopping cart5. Requests made by client C may be applied byPOS logic6.

Eachtime POS logic6 updatesvirtual shopping chart5, a copy of it may be sent to the client C using direct messaging. Client C retrieves the copy ofvirtual shopping chart5 and may update the display ofconsumer device300.

When cashier S register payments to finalize the session each payment is attached tovirtual shopping cart5 as its own payment line. On each payment line change a new copy ofvirtual shopping cart5 is sent to client C whereby display onconsumer device300 may be updated.

When the sum of all registered payments cover the cost of all registered items the cashier S may complete the transaction.

Cashier S may cancel a transaction at any time whereby a notification is sent to client C. User U by means oflogic4, may terminate the session wherebyvirtual shopping cart5 is voided and client C returns to an idle state. In the case where user U initiated a self-service shopping session prior to the check-out he/she/it may continue that self-service shopping session.

User U may cancel check-out at any time whereby a notification is sent toPOS logic6. User U by means oflogic4, may terminate the session wherebyvirtual shopping cart5 is voided and client C returns to an idle state. In the case where user U initiated a self-service shopping session prior to the check-out he/she/it may continue that self-service shopping session.

When cashier S completes the transaction inPOS terminal2,POS logic6 sends a confirming message, e.g. with status code Ok, to the clientC. POS logic6 also callsserver1 to finalize the session.Server1 then preferably createsdigital receipt8.

Digital receipt8 is stored indata storage14, in a retrievable manner, implying a kind of existence of areceipt folder140 for each user, which as the skilled person realizes may be achieved in various manners, e.g. by means of having actual electronic folders and/or tables and/or codes that fulfill that purpose.

FIG. 8 shows an example of the workflow for the check-out.

• • a. When ready cashier S accepts the check-out session inPOS terminal2 andPOS terminal2 starts to send a copy ofvirtual shopping cart5 tologic4 inconsumer device3.
  • b. Additional items may be added, removed or changed invirtual shopping cart5 byPOS terminal2 whereupon a new copy ofvirtual shopping cart5 is sent tologic4.
  • c.Logic4 displays thevirtual shopping cart5 in display ofconsumer device300.
  • d.Logic4 inconsumer device3 may send information toPOS logic6 such as requests to add additional items tovirtual shopping cart5.
  • e. User U pays using methods such as cash, credit card, gift certificate or by mobile payment, by means ofpayment channel9 toPOS terminal2.Payment channel9 may be independent of saidconsumer device3, which is a beneficial advantage by means of the system of the invention.
  • f. When payment is completedPOS logic6 notifiesserver1 to set the session as finalized.
  • g.Digital receipt8 is generated indata storage14.
  • h.POS logic6 notifieslogic4 inconsumer device3 that the check-out session is completed.
  • i.Logic4 callsserver1 and retrievesdigital receipt8.
  • j.Logic4 may update the display ofconsumer device300 with thedigital receipt8.

After user U have paid and when the check-out session is ended the displayed view may switch to a view displayingdigital receipt8.

In the menu based shopping the user may preferably search for items or select items from a palette. The items may be grouped in an easily navigable format such as list (e.g. food chart), tree (e.g. list of lists or zoomable grids of subgrids), graph structures (e.g. hyper link documents/lists), map (e.g. items ordered by position on the screen), etc.

Parameters that may affect the order presented items may include

• • Attributes of the user U such as age, gender or any other available attribute.
  • Purchase history of user U or other users of the system.
  • Current or past geolocation ofconsumer device3 containing thelogic4.
  • Date and time such as ranges, holidays, seasons, time of day, etc.
  • Environmental information such as current, past or predicted weather, political situation, media information, etc.
  • Promotional or loyalty programs.
  • Coupons and gift certificates.
  • Recommendations and reviews from external sources such as price comparison sites, social media, etc.
  • Currently registered items invirtual shopping cart5.
  • Attributes of merchandise such as stock status, location in store (17) or any other available attribute.

An item may be structured in the following way:

• • Singular item represents a merchandise with attributes such as color, unit of measure, etc.
  • Choice item, meaning that an item must be selected from a predefined set of items. E.g. if the item is a soft drink user U must make a selection from the items Coke, Fanta, Sprite, etc.
  • Composite item, meaning that the item composed by two or more items. Each item is quantified in the context of the composite item. E.g. a burger meal may consist of the items burger, french fries and soft drink, etc.

An item is recursive in its nature. E.g. a choice or composite item may be a set of other singular, choice or composite items in any combination.

Items may be edited in prior to or after user U adds the item tovirtual shopping cart5 according to editing rules defined by the merchant. E.g. quantity, composition of composite item (add, remove or modify ingredients) and choice items.

User U selects items utilizing the user interface onconsumer device3 whereby the item is added tovirtual shopping cart5. The total value of thevirtual shopping cart5 may be updated as a result of an item registration.

FIG. 5 shows an example of the workflow of menu based shopping.

• • a.Logic4 inconsumer device3 callsserver1 and retrieves a list of nearby stores (17), based on the current location from a GPS function inconsumer device3, from which user U may select a specific store (17).
  • b.Logic4 inconsumer device3 may also select a store (XX) by scanning a specific check-incode11 containing an identifier for the selected store (17).
  • c.Logic4 starts a new menu based shopping session by callingserver1 with the identifier for the selected store (17).
  • d.Server1 creates a new session and avirtual shopping cart5 indata storage14.
  • e. Thelogic4 inconsumer device3 callsserver1 to retrieve a list ofmerchandise items7.
  • f.Server1 callsbackend13 and retrieves a list ofmerchandise items7 which is returned tologic4.
  • g.Logic4 displays the list ofmerchandise7 in display ofconsumer device300.
  • h. User U selects anmerchandise7 by means oflogic4.
  • i.Logic4 callsserver1 with the identity of selectedmerchandise7.
  • j.Server1 updates theshopping cart5 indata storage14 wherebyvirtual shopping cart5 is returned tologic4.
  • k.Logic4 may update display of consumer device accordingly.
  • l. The user U may modify an item in thevirtual shopping cart5 by means oflogic4. Examples of modifications on a line may include removal or changing the quantity of items invirtual shopping cart5.
  • m.Logic4 callsserver1 to apply the modification on the corresponding item invirtual shopping cart5.
  • n.Server1 updatesvirtual shopping cart5 indata storage14.Virtual shopping cart5 is then returned tologic4.
  • o.Logic4 may update display of consumer device accordingly.
  • p. User U may acquire more information about scannedmerchandise7 by means oflogic4.
  • q.Logic4 sends a request toserver1 with the identity ofmerchandise7.
  • r.Server1 callsbackend13 and retrieves information about themerchandise7.
  • s.Server1 may callexternal sources400 for additional information aboutmerchandise7. Examples of external sources are manufacturers, price comparison web sites, etc. Gathered information is returned tologic4.
  • t. When self-service shopping session ends, user U scans check-out code12, e.g. located adjacent to one of thePOS terminals2 by means oflogic4.
  • u.Logic4 callsserver1 and requests a check-out and retrieves the direct message address ofPOS terminal2.
  • v.Logic4 sends a check-out request toPOS terminal2 using direct message.
  • w.POS terminal2 callsserver1 and retrievesvirtual shopping cart5.

Accounts may be associated with each other. This enables direct communication betweenconsumer devices3 where respective users U are logged in. Direct communication may facilitate functionality such as:

• • Transfer items from one user U'svirtual shopping cart5 to another user U'svirtual shopping cart5.
  • View another user U'svirtual shopping cart5 in real time.
  • Send messages between users U.
  • Transfer or exchange gift certificates, coupons, loyalty/bonus points, receipts with associated information such as warranty information, etc.

Transferring items may facilitate functionality such as splittingvirtual shopping cart5 into several payment transactions (e.g. restaurant bills), or merging two or morevirtual shopping carts5 to one for a single payment transaction, inPOS terminal2.

View another user U'svirtual shopping cart5 in real time may facilitate functionality such as tracking the completion of a common shopping list.

Send messages between users U may facilitate functionality such as human communication interaction (e.g. to coordinate the purchase of merchandise).

The workflow for associating accounts may follow the steps below as schematically shown inFIG. 9:

• • a. User U:1 invokes the functionality to associate with another user U in client C.
  • b. Logic4:1 callsserver1 to create an association id.
  • c.Server1 creates a new association id indata storage14.
  • d. Logic4:1 displays an association code which contains the association id on display of consumer device300:1.
  • e. User U:2 invokes the functionality to complete the association with another user U.
  • f. Logic4:2 activates the camera scanner view on display of consumer device300:2
  • g. User U:2 scans the association code on the display of consumer device300:1 using consumer device3:2.
  • h. Logic4:2 callsserver1 and retrieves information about the association.
  • i.Server1 retrieves display information (e.g. name and avatar of user U:1) about the association fromdata storage14 and returns it to logic4:2.
  • j. Logic4:2 prompts the user U:2 about the association on display of consumer device300:2.
  • k. User U:2 accepts the association.
  • l. Logic4:2 callsserver1 and accepts the association.
  • m.Server1 updates the association id indata storage14 and retrieves display information (e.g. name and avatar of user U:2).
  • n.Server1 notifies logic4:1 with the response of user U:2.
  • o. Logic4:1 prompts the user U:1 to acknowledge the response of user U:2 on display of consumer device300:2.
  • p. User U:1 acknowledges the response of user U:2.
  • q. Logic4:1 callsserver1 about the acknowledgement.
  • r.Server1 permanently writes the association todata storage14.
  • s.Server1 notifies the logic4:2 that the association is completed.
  • t. Logic4:2 notifies the user U:2 that the association is completed on the display of consumer device300:2.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention a code printed on apaper receipt5, from a previous purchase, may be scanned usingconsumer device3 wherebypaper receipt15 is imported frombackend13 and stored intoreceipt archive140 as adigital receipt8.

To facilitate transferring items betweenvirtual shopping carts5 the following preconditions shall preferably be met:

• • User accounts of User U:1 and user U:2 are associated with each other.
  • Both user U:1 and user U:2 have active sessions in the same store (17).

To transfer single items from user U:1's virtual shopping cart5:1 to user U:2's virtual shopping cart5:2 follow the steps below as schematically shown inFIG. 13A:

• • a. User U:1 invokes functionality to select one or more items in his/her/its virtual shopping cart5:1 in logic4:1 and to transfer these items to user U:2.
  • b. Logic4:1 callsserver1 with the association id and a list of items to transfer.
  • c.Server1 creates a transfer request indata storage14 containing source and destination session id and the list of items to transfer.
  • d.Server1 notifies logic4:2 about the transfer request.
  • e. Logic4:2 prompts user U:2 about the transfer request on display of consumer device300:2.
  • f. User U:2 accepts the transfer request.
  • g. Logic4:2 callsserver1 to acknowledge the transfer request.
  • h.Server1 performs the transfer request by removing the items in virtual shopping cart5:1 and adding the items to virtual shopping cart5:2 and then deletes the transfer request indata storage14.
  • i.Server1 notifies logic4:2 that the transfer request is performed and with the virtual shopping cart5:2 attached.
  • j. Logic4:2 may display the virtual shopping cart5:2 in display of consumer device300:2.
  • k.Server1 notifies logic4:1 that the transfer request is performed and with the virtual shopping cart5:1 attached.
  • l. Logic4:1 may display the virtual shopping cart5:1 in display of consumer device300:1

To merge virtual shopping carts5 (i.e. transferring all items from virtual shopping cart5:1 to virtual shopping cart5:2) follow the steps below as schematically shown inFIG. 13B:

• • a. User U:1 invokes functionality to transfer his/her/its virtual shopping cart5:1 in logic4:1 to user U:2.
  • b. Logic4:1 callsserver1 with the association id and session to transfer.
  • c.Server1 creates a transfer request indata storage14 containing source and destination session id to transfer.
  • d.Server1 notifies logic4:2 about the transfer request.
  • e. Logic4:2 prompts user U:2 about the transfer request on display of consumer device300:2.
  • f. User U:2 accepts the transfer request.
  • g. Logic4:2 callsserver1 to acknowledge the transfer request.
  • h.Server1 performs the transfer request by removing the items in virtual shopping cart5:1 and adding the items to virtual shopping cart5:2 and then deletes the transfer request and the virtual shopping cart5:1 indata storage14.
  • i.Server1 notifies logic4:2 that the transfer request is performed and with the virtual shopping cart5:2 attached.
  • j. Logic4:2 may display the virtual shopping cart5:2 in display of consumer device300:2.
  • k.Server1 notifies logic4:1 that the transfer request is performed.
  • l. Logic4:1 notifies the user U:1 and updates display of consumer device300:1 accordingly.

Viewing another user U'svirtual shopping cart5 in real time follow the steps below as schematically shown inFIG. 13C:

• • a. Logic4:1queries server1 for any users that have active sessions and are associated with user U:1 (in this case the response is user U:2).
  • b. Logic4:1 prompts user U:1 if he/she/it wants to subscribe to events related to virtual shopping cart5:2.
  • c. User U:1 accepts.
  • d. Logic4:1 callsserver1 with the association id to subscribe to virtual shopping cart5:2.
  • e.Server1 creates a subscription request indata storage14 containing source and destination session id for subscription.
  • f.Server1 notifies logic4:2 about the subscription request.
  • g. Logic4:2 prompts user U:2 about the subscription request on display of consumer device300:2.
  • h. User U:2 accepts the subscription request.
  • i. Logic4:2 callsserver1 to acknowledge the subscription request.
  • j.Server1 activates the subscription indata storage14.
  • k.Server1 notifies logic4:2 that the subscription is active with the virtual shopping cart5:1 attached.
  • l. Logic4:2 may display the virtual shopping cart5:1 in display of consumer device300:2.
  • m.Server1 notifies logic4:1 that the subscription is active with the virtual shopping cart5:2 attached.
  • n. Logic4:1 notifies the user U:1 and updates display of consumer device300:1 accordingly.

When the above flow is finished any changes made to virtual shopping cart5:1 a copy of virtual shopping cart5:1 is sent byserver1 to logic4:2 and vice versa.

It is also within the ambit of the invention enable functionality for user U to scan paper receipts from previous purchases the POS terminal

Ifdigital receipt8 is not ready for import atbackend13,server1 may notify thebackend13 to importdigital receipt8 when ready. User U may be notified that digital toreceipt8 is to be found inreceipt archive140 whendigital receipt8 has been imported. A receipt import may follow the steps below as schematically shown inFIG. 10A;

• • a.POS terminal2 finalizes a transaction and produces apaper receipt15, containing a code that uniquely identifies the store (17) and thepaper receipt15.
  • b.POS logic6 callsbackend13 and stores adigital version141 of thepaper receipt15 with the unique identifier from step a.
  • c. User U invokes functionality to importpaper receipt15 usinglogic4 inconsumer device3.
  • d.Logic4 updates display ofconsumer device300 with functionality for scanning codes.
  • e.Logic4 scans a code on apaper receipt15 from a previous purchase and retrieves the unique identifier of the store (17) and receipt from step a.
  • f.Logic4 callsserver1 with the identity of user U and the identifier if the store (17) and receipt from step a.
  • g.Server1queries data storage14 for a session id matching the unique identifier of the store (17) and receipt from step a to ensure that there is no match then associates user U with the identifier if the store (17) and receipt from step a.
  • h.Server1 retrieves the backend connection information fromdata storage14 using the store (17) identity.
  • i.Server1 calls backend and requests thereceipt141 with the identifier if the store (17) and receipt from step a.
  • j.Server1 generates a session id and stores thereceipt141 intoreceipt archive140 for user U.
  • k.Server1 updates the association mention in step g with the session id generated in step j indata storage14.
  • l.Logic4 displays thedigital receipt141 on display ofconsumer device300.

POS logic6 may not yet have stored thereceipt141 inbackend13 when user U scans the code onpaper receipt15. In that scenario the receipt import may follow the steps below as schematically shown inFIG. 10B:

• • a.POS terminal2 finalizes a transaction and produces apaper receipt15, containing a code that uniquely identifies the store (XX) and thepaper receipt15.
  • b. User U invokes functionality to importpaper receipt15 usinglogic4 inconsumer device3.
  • c.Logic4 updates display ofconsumer device300 with functionality for scanning codes.
  • d.Logic4 scans a code on apaper receipt15 from a previous purchase and retrieves the unique identifier of the store (17) and receipt from step a.
  • e.Logic4 callsserver1 with the identity of user U and the identifier if the store (17) and receipt from step a.
  • f.Server1queries data storage14 for a session id matching the unique identifier of the store (17) and receipt from step a to ensure that there is no match then associates user U with the identifier if the store (17) and receipt from step a.
  • g.Server1 retrieves the backend connection information fromdata storage14 using the store (17) identity.
  • h.Server1 calls backend and requests thereceipt141 with the identifier if the store (17) and receipt from step a.Backend13 responds with a status code that indicates that thereceipt141 may be delivered later.
  • i.Logic4 notifies the user in display ofconsumer device300 that thereceipt141 may be delivered later.
  • j.POS logic6 callsbackend13 and stores adigital version141 of thepaper receipt15 with the unique identifier from step a.
  • k.Backend14 delivers thereceipt141 toserver1.
  • l.Server1 generates a session id and stores thereceipt141 intoreceipt archive140 for user U.
  • m.Server1 updates the association mention in step f with the session id generated instep1 indata storage14.

By tapping on a “Share button” in the client C a user may select to share adigital receipt8, in a preferred embodiment.

A list may be shown in display ofconsumer device300 to show available options for sharingdigital receipt8 for user U:

• • Hosting services such as DropBox, Google Drive, etc.
  • E-mail attachment.
  • ERP-system16, where it may be electronically and preferably automatically handled.
  • Social media such as Facebook, Google Plus, etc.

When sendingdigital receipt8 to a file hosting service or as e-mail thedigital receipt8 may be converted to a suitable file format (such as PDF or similar). The option to send the receipt to ERP-system will normally require that the user is identified as an employee at a company connected to the ERP-system. The system may also require an existing integration (such as SIE or other standard integration methods) between the system of the invention and ERP-system of that company. Sharing adigital receipt8 may be done as follows as shown inFIG. 11;

• • a. A user enters a command to share adigital receipt8 inlogic4 inconsumer device3, which sends the request toserver1.
  • b.Digital receipt8 is exported viaserver1.
  • c.Chosen recipient16 receivesdigital receipt8;
    • 1. If user U is connected to a companydigital receipt8 may be exported to arecipient16 connected to that company, e.g. transferred to ERP system of that company.
    • 2. As an e-mail attachment (such as PDF or similar) sent from theserver1 to arecipient16, i.e. to mail recipient.
    • 3. As a file (PDF or similar) and stored at arecipient16 in the form of a file hosting service.

When transferring a digital receipt from a user (user U:1) to another user (user U:2) thedigital receipt140A may be copied into a newdigital receipt140B and stored indata storage14 for user U:2 and preferably thereafter deleted or marked as transferred for user U:1. Transferring adigital receipt8 from user U:1 to user U:2 may imply that its ownership is changed from user U:1 to user U:2. Thedigital receipt8 may still be partially accessible (i.e. unable to further share or transfer the digital receipt8) for user U:1 after it has been transferred to user U:2.

Transferring receipts may require that the accounts of user U:1 and user U:2 is associated with each other as previously described in this document. User U:1 may preferably select user U:2 from a list containing already associated accounts. User U:1 may also have the possibility to create a new association with user U:2, following the previously described procedure.

Transfer adigital receipt8 may be done as follows as shown inFIG. 12;

• • a. User U:1 invokes the functionality transfer adigital receipt140A
  • b. Logic4:1 may display a list of associated accounts
  • c. User U:1 selects the associated account of user U:2.
  • d. Logic4:1 callsserver1 with association id identifying the associated account of user U:2.
  • e.Server1 retrieves the account id for user U:2 fromdata storage14 using the association id.
  • f.Server1 marks thedigital receipt140A as in pending transfer.
  • g.Server1 notifies logic4:2 about the pending transfer.
  • h. Logic4:2 notifies the user U:2 to about the request on display of consumer device300:2.
  • i. Immediately or at a some point later in time, logic4:2 retrieves the pending transfer fromserver1.
  • j. Logic4:2 prompts the user U:2 about the pending transfer on display of consumer device300:2.
  • k. User U:2 accepts the transfer.
  • l. Logic4:2 callsserver1 and accepts the request.
  • m.Server1 copiesdigital receipt140A into140B and marksdigital receipt140A as transferred and removes the pending transfer indata storage14.

The system may let users U gain award points by performing different tasks in the client C. Examples of award-based tasks are:

• • A user U invites another person to use the system and earns award points.
  • A user U buys something at a store (17) that is currently running a bonus program and earns award points. The user U may use these award points at the store (17) according to the rules set by that store (17).
  • A user U buys somemerchandise7 at a store (17) where the manufacturer of that product is running a bonus program. The user U may use these award points at any reseller of the product according to the rules set by the manufacturer.

In a preferred embodiment a user U may see the current awards when checked in at a store (17). A list may show the award bonus programs that the store (17) is currently running and other bonus programs that the user U may take part in. Once an award is achieved, for example if the user U has earned a certain amount of points, the award may be used.

• • a. A user U checks in at a store (17) by scanning the check-incode11 or e.g. by selecting the store (17) in a list (e.g. a “Nearby stores” list).
  • b.Logic4 in theconsumer device3 callsserver1 for a list of award bonus to programs for the store (17) and for current user U.
  • c.Server1 calls thebackend13 of or a list of award bonus programs for the current user U.
  • d.Server1 retrieves reseller bonus programs that user U may take part in and the current award bonus balance for the current user U from a table storage atbackend13 of that store (17).
  • e. User U uses some of the award points via thelogic4 in theconsumer device3.
  • f.Logic4 in theconsumer device3 callsserver1 which adjusts the current award bonus point balance in table storage at thebackend13 of that store (17).

In a preferred embodiment a value check exchange may make it possible for users U to “sell” earned awards to other users U on an open value check exchange.

InFIG. 14 A there is shown an example of a check-incode11, comprising at least acode uri110 identifying the system according to the invention and astore code id111 uniquely identifying the store. As shown the check-incode11 preferably also comprises achecksum112 validating theuri code110, wherein preferably said checksum is based on a cryptographically secure keyed hash function. Thestore code id111 preferably includes a set of identifyingsub codes111A,111B,111C, preferably including atleast country id111A identifying the country of the store,organization id111B identifying organization of the store andstore id111C identifying the actual store.

InFIG. 14 B there is shown an example of a check-out code12, comprising at least acode uri110 identifying the system and aregister code id120 uniquely identifying aPOS terminal2. The check-out code11 preferably also comprises achecksum112 validating theuri code110, wherein preferably said checksum is based on a cryptographically secure keyed hash function. Theregister code id120 preferably includes a set of identifyingsub codes111A,111B,111C,120D, preferably including atleast country id111A identifying the country of the store,organization id111B identifying organization of the store,store id111C identifying the actual store and a POSterminal code id120D identifying theactual POS terminal2. In the preferred embodiment the basic code structure of thestore code id111 is used the check-out code12.

InFIG. 14 C there is shown an example ofreceipt code80, comprising at least acode uri110 identifying the system, aregister code id120 uniquely identifying aPOS terminal2 andreceipt id82. Thereceipt code12 preferably also comprises achecksum112 validating theuri code110, wherein preferably said checksum is based on a cryptographically secure keyed hash function. Theregister code id120 preferably includes a set of identifyingsub codes111A,111B,111C,120D, preferably including atleast country id111A identifying the country of the store,organization id111B identifying organization of the store,store id111C identifying the actual store and a POSterminal code id120D identifying theactual POS terminal2. Thereceipt id82 is a unique identifier for each receipt matching the receipt id in thebackend13 of the store. In the preferred embodiment the same code structure is used regardingregister code id120 as for the check-out code12.

InFIG. 14 D there is shown an example of anaccount association code22, comprising at least acode uri110 identifying the system and anassociation code id220. Theaccount association code22 preferably also comprises achecksum112 validating theuri code110, wherein preferably said checksum is based on a cryptographically secure keyed hash function. Theassociation code id220 is a unique identifier for an association between two clients C;1, C;2. Theaccount association code22 may also include areceipt id82, which is a unique identifier for each receipt matching the receipt id in thebackend13 of the store. In the preferred embodiment the same code structure is used regardingreceipt id82 as for thereceipt code80.

The invention is not limited by the examples described above but may be varied within the scope of the pending claims. In this regard it is referred to the listing in the introductory portion of the description where some expressions used in the claims are discussed in more details in order to clarify that the chosen claim language may not be given a too narrow interpretation. It is submitted that for the skilled person is evident that many conceptual aspects of the invention have to be broadly construed, and that their function may be achieved by means of various solutions that are known to the skilled person. Further the claims shall be construed in such a manner that in a special case of the invention, check-in and initiating of check-out is performed in one and the same step, i.e. in a situation where the selectedmerchandise7 are not firstly registered via theclient device3 but via a point of sale terminal2 (in manner a more similar to traditional shopping). In such a situation check-in and initiating of check-out will take place substantially at the same time, i.e. different from the “normal” procedure described above, where there is a time gap between check-in and check-out.

Moreover it is foreseen that some of the aspects defined in the description may be the subject of their own patent protection. For instance the direct communication arrangement of the invention includes aspects that may provide advantages per se, i.e. also if not having any client interconnected with POS terminal nor a virtual shopping cart, for instance for sharing a digitally stored listing or other kind of information, for joint real time updated information and preferably also provide interaction between a plurality of clients in real time. Furthermore also the aspect related to interconnecting producers and clients by means ofunique merchandise identifiers70 may also be an aspect that will be subject for its own patent protection. Further also the aspect related to a system facilitating payment by different means, possibly not connected to the client device, (e.g. cash, or card and cash, etc) may be an aspect that will be subject for its own patent protection. Moreover also the aspect related to the use of check-in codes may be an aspect that will be subject for its own patent protection. Also aspects related to the code structure in connection with check-out may be an aspect that will be subject for its own patent protection, as further aspects mentioned in the detailed description.

Claims (26)

The invention claimed is:

1. A system comprising:

a server in communication with a plurality of consumer devices and point-of-sale (POS) terminals configured to communicate wirelessly with the plurality of said consumer devices; and

a logic stored on the consumer device configured to identify a store, provide check-in in said store thus creating a virtual shopping cart for shopping at said store and provide check-out for payment at said POS terminal in said store,

logic stored on the POS terminal configured to provide communication with said consumer device, wherein said logics are configured to provide said POS terminal to complete the sale of merchandise contained in said virtual shopping cart, and to produce a physical receipt and/or an electronic receipt, wherein said virtual shopping cart is handled by said server and wherein said logics are multitenant and are configured to provide completion of said sales by means of direct communication via said server, said logic stored on the consumer device is configured to electronically identify a check-in code and to use said check-in code to check in at a store, and said logic stored on the consumer device is configured to electronically identify a check-out code and to use said check-out code to connect to a point-of-sale terminal for completion of a sale.

2. The system according toclaim 1, wherein said logics are multitenant and are configured to provide completion of said sales by means of direct communication via said server.

3. The system according toclaim 2, wherein said logics are configured to produce an electronic receipt.

4. The system according toclaim 1, wherein said server includes a plurality of direct messaging router nodes and a routing table configured to connect to said logics.

5. The system according toclaim 1, wherein said POS terminal is configured to enable payment by means of a payment channel that can be independent of said consumer device.

6. The system according toclaim 1, wherein said logic stored on the consumer device is configured to enable authorization by means of third party identity provider.

7. The system according toclaim 1, wherein said logic stored on the consumer device is configured to electronically identify a check-in code and to use said check-in code to check in at a store.

8. The system according toclaim 7, wherein said check-in code comprises a code uri identifying the system and a store code id uniquely identifying the store.

9. The system according toclaim 8, wherein said check-in code comprises a checksum validating the uri code.

10. The system according toclaim 9, wherein said checksum is based on a cryptographically secure keyed hash function.

11. The system according toclaim 9, wherein said store code id includes at least country id identifying the country of the store, organization id identifying organization of the store and store id identifying the actual store.

12. The system according toclaim 8, wherein said store code id includes a set of identifying sub codes.

13. The system according toclaim 12, wherein said sets of identifying sub codes include at least some sub codes which are the same for both the check-in code and check-out code respectively.

14. The system according toclaim 1, wherein said logic stored on the costumer device is configured to electronically identify a check-out code and to use said check-out code to connect to a point-of-sale terminal for completion of a sale.

15. The system according toclaim 14, wherein said check-out code comprises a code uri identifying the system and a register code id uniquely identifying a POS terminal.

16. The system according toclaim 15, wherein said check-out code comprises a checksum validating the uri code.

17. The system according toclaim 16, wherein said checksum is based on a cryptographically secure keyed hash function.

18. The system according toclaim 16, wherein said register code id includes a set of identifying sub codes.

19. The system according toclaim 18, wherein said register code id includes at least country id identifying the country of the store, organization id identifying organization of the store, store id identifying the actual store and a POS terminal code id identifying the actual POS terminal.

20. The system according toclaim 19, wherein said sets of identifying sub codes include at least some sub codes which are the same for both the check-in code and check-out code respectively.

21. The system according toclaim 1, wherein said logics are configured to provide real time view within the display of the consumer device displaying the information processed by said POS terminal.

22. A payment method comprising:

a server communicating with a plurality of consumer devices,

point-of-sale (POS) terminals configured to communicate wirelessly with the plurality of the consumer devices; and

a logic stored on the consumer device identifying a store, providing check-in in said store thus creating a virtual shopping cart providing shopping at said store and providing check-out for payment at said point-of-sale (POS) terminals in said store,

logic stored on the point-of-sale (POS) terminal providing communication with said consumer device,

wherein said logics are configured to provide said point-of-sale (POS) terminals to complete the sale of merchandise contained in said virtual shopping cart, and to produce a physical receipt and/or an electronic receipt,

wherein said server is also communicating with the plurality of point-of-sale (POS) terminals and said virtual shopping cart is handled by said server, said logics are multitenant and provide completion of said sales by means of direct communication via said server, said logic stored on the consumer device electronically identifies a check-in code and uses said check-in code to check in at a store, said logic stored on the consumer device electronically identifies a check-out code and uses said check-out code to connect to a point-of-sale (POS) terminal for completion of a sale.

23. The method according toclaim 22, wherein said logics provide real time view within a display of the consumer device displaying the information processed by said point-of-sale (POS) terminal.

24. The method according toclaim 22, wherein said server includes a plurality of direct messaging router nodes and a routing table configured to connect to said logics.

25. The method according toclaim 22, wherein said point-of-sale (POS) terminal is configured to provide payment by means of a payment channel that can be independent of said consumer device.

26. The method according toclaim 22, wherein said logic stored on the consumer device is configured to provide authorization by means of third party identity provider.

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